J&A Racing, a world-class race management company based in Virginia Beach is pleased to announce that the Crawlin’ Crab Half Marathon, 5K and Kids Kilometer presented by Bon Secours In Motion has been recognized as a Sports Event to Watch in 2017 by SportsEvents Magazine. This exciting event features flat, fast courses, which take runners through historic downtown Hampton, into beautiful old neighborhoods, and along the majestic Chesapeake Bay and Hampton Roads Harbor. To add to the excitement, DJs and radio stations provide entertainment along the courses, escorting participants to an energetic finish, with a Craft Brew Fest waiting for them as they cross the finish line. All race participants receive commemorative swag, including a unique finisher’s medal, a commemorative shirt and an awesome finisher item.

The Outdoor Craft Brew Fest features live music, craft brews and Kickin’ Corn & Crab Chowder provided by Baker’s Crust. The weekend also features a two-day Sports & Fitness Expo at the Hampton Roads Convention Center, which includes sports retailers, sports performance services, and other exciting vendors.

Sports event professionals were asked to nominate sports events that they believe made a memorable impression and earned the right to be a Sports Event to Watch in 2017. Nominations were received from readers throughout the year, and the top picks were selected based on results from an online voting system.

“With thousands of sporting events across the nation each year, it takes something special to stand out,” said John Rezell, SportsEvents executive editors. “These events have shown they deserve to be honored for setting a high standard.”

“The City of Hampton is extremely excited to welcome the return of the Crawlin’ Crab Half Marathon, 5K, Kids Kilometer & Shell Yeah Challenge, October 6-8, 2017,” said Hampton City Mayor Donnie Tuck. “We deeply value our partnership with J&A Racing, one of the top race management companies in the country, and are looking forward to hosting the Crawlin’ Crab for many years to come.”

“We are thrilled to have Crawlin’ Crab selected as a Sports Event to Watch in 2017,” said J&A Racing co-owner, Amy Frostick. “We have enjoyed working with the city of Hampton to help showcase their beautiful city, and we are excited to see this young race already gain national recognition. We look forward to seeing Crawlin’ Crab continue to grow!”